The drug "Stoptussin" refers to antitussive drugs. It has a pronounced expectorant and bronchodilator effect. In this article, we will consider detailed instructions for using the medicine, as well as give reviews about Stoptussin.
The form of release of the drug and its composition
The drug is produced in the form of drops for oral administration in dark glass bottles of 25, 10 and 50 ml with a built-in dropper, which allows you to conveniently measure the desired dose. Also on sale is the Stoptussin syrup for children. It is a thick, dark brown liquid with a pronounced aroma of thyme.
The composition of the drug contains natural substances: thyme, plantain, thyme. Excipients - honey, sodium benzoate, water.
One milliliter of drops includes 100 mg of the active ingredient guaifenesin, as well as 4 mg of the butyrate component of dihydrocytrate. In addition, the preparation includes auxiliary elements: purified water, flavor, liquid licorice extract, ethanol in a concentration of 96%, propylene glycol.
When is it used?
What cough does Stoptussin help? The drug is intended for oral use in the treatment of conditions such as:
- cough, having a different origin - obsessive, dry, unproductive, annoying;
- decrease in cough after surgery;
- preparing the patient for a diagnostic analysis of the respiratory tract.
"Stoptussin" is prescribed as a complex remedy along with other drugs for tracheitis, bronchitis, laryngitis, pneumonia, pleurisy and other inflammatory processes in the respiratory system.
Possible contraindications
The drug has contraindications and limitations, so before starting treatment, you must carefully read the instructions. “Stoptussin” in the form of drops cannot be prescribed in the following cases:
- children's age up to six months;
- myasthenia gravis;
- first trimester of pregnancy;
- lactation period;
- intolerance to the components of the drug of an individual nature.
How to take Stoptussin?
The duration of the therapeutic course, as well as the daily dose of the drug, is determined by the attending physician for each patient individually. The required number of drops is diluted in tea, water, juice or another liquid (small amount). The medicine should be taken one hour before a meal or an hour after a meal. The daily dose is divided into two to three doses. For children older than six months, the drug is prescribed once a day in eight drops, if necessary, the dose is gradually increased under the supervision of a specialist. The dosage of Stoptussin should be strictly observed.
A single dose for adult patients ranges from 20 to 45 drops and depends on the degree of manifestation of the clinical signs of the disease and body weight.
In accordance with the instructions for the use of Stoptussin drops, adults should take five days, but if there is no therapeutic effect, then the patient should consult a specialist again.
The syrup is taken in accordance with the instructions of the doctor, although the recommended doses are indicated in the instructions:
- from 1 to 5 years 1/2 tsp up to 3 times a day;
- from 5 years to 1-2 tsp. 3 times a day;
- from 10 to 15 years for 2 tsp. 3 times a day;
- from 15 years 1 tsp 5 times a day.
Use during pregnancy and during breastfeeding
During the first trimester of bearing a child, the drug is contraindicated for expectant mothers, since treatment with it can adversely affect the growth of the fetus and the formation of its internal organs. This is due to the fact that ethanol is included in the composition of this drug, which easily penetrates the placental barrier. This confirms the instruction for use for drops for adults "Stoptussin".
In the remaining trimesters of pregnancy, the use of the drug becomes possible if there are serious indications, but under the strict supervision of a specialist and only when the benefit to the woman is higher than the likely danger to her unborn child.
If there is a need for Stoptussin treatment of patients during breastfeeding, it is very important to remember that the ethanol contained in the preparation is excreted in human milk and can negatively affect the baby. During treatment, termination of lactation is required.
Feasible side effects
The drug "Stoptussin" reviews earned positive. It is tolerated by patients normally, however, in excess of the prescribed dose and hypersensitivity to the ingredients, the patient may experience side effects such as:
- from the digestive organs: vomiting, pain in the abdomen, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, increased transaminase;
- nervous system: drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, lethargy, fatigue, lethargy;
- allergic reactions: rashes in the form of erythema, Quincke's edema, pruritus, urticaria, anaphylactic shock, dermatitis.
Overdose
If the recommended dose is significantly exceeded, then the patient may experience overdose symptoms, accompanied by an increase in the side effects described above, muscle weakness, development of kidney failure, urolithiasis.
If such signs appear, then the patient is vomited, the stomach is washed, activated charcoal and other sorbents are prescribed. If necessary, the doctor prescribes symptomatic therapy.
special instructions
"Stoptussin" is not effective if prescribed for patients with pulmonary emphysema, smoker's cough, chronic bronchitis. In this case, the appointment of another tool is required. During treatment, it is recommended to avoid driving vehicles and operating various equipment that requires a sharp response, because dizziness may begin in patients due to the ethanol that is part of Stoptussin.
Analogs
“Stoptussin” has analogues that have similar pharmacological effects. These include: Fluditec, Sinecode, ACC, Ascoril, Erespal, Doctor Mom, Lorkof, Ambrobene, Mukaltin. All of these analogues have an expectorant and antitussive effect, which has a different level of severity.
Each of the similar drugs has a cost that varies over a wide range. It is necessary to consult with your doctor before choosing a medicine.
Reviews about "Stoptussin"
According to the testimony of many patients, the drug "Stoptussin" is considered very effective. In some cases, dizziness or headaches, an unreasonable loss of strength and fatigue appear during treatment. The composition includes natural ingredients and honey, so some babies may develop allergic edema and a rash. Reviews about Stoptussin confirm that constipation or diarrhea is possible, but this happens in extremely rare cases.